By Jan Dogar-Hurd, Schools Advocacy Coordinator
Schools Advocacy recently held a Language and Literacy workshop for all our families in partnership with Caper Bookshop.
Local author Lanisha Butterfield entertained us with a reading from her book, ‘Flower Block’, “a glorious celebration of the power of nature to bring communities together”.
Our audience was entranced by the language and the story of Jeremiah planting sunflower seeds, which grow throughout a tower block and lead them on a fantastical journey to the roof garden. We explored language, modelled reading to parents, and the children designed their own special fantasy homes.
This school holiday programme has introduced our families to the joy of books and reading, with each family being gifted a copy of Flower Tower. A conversation with the author, an author signing, and a Q&A session followed the reading. Then we shared pizza and conversation.
“It’s the best day,” said Ahmed.
“I love the story,” commented Lima.
“I want to be an author,” said Kheyla.
“Why did you write this book?” asked a student.
The sharing of these books between students and parents gives each an insight into the enjoyment of reading. Books and reading not only have the power to change learning outcomes but also give families an opportunity to engage in and share a meaningful learning experience, empowering them on their learning journey.
Many thanks to Caper Bookshop and Lanisha Butterfield for donating their time and resources to this event, and to the mentors who came along to support families.
